Historic maps are an example of a primary source that can be used in research and study. Cartographers from the time periods being studied can reveal the agendas and perceptions of the people during the time period. In addition, information about routes and exploration can provide an insight into the experiences of past explorers and developers. These primary source maps are available in several formats: originals, reproductions, facsimiles, and as digital scans.
The Map Collection on the first floor of Scott Library has a collection of facsimile and reproduction maps and atlases. In addition, the Archives and Special Collections has a collection of rare maps and atlases. All of these maps and atlases can be search using the library catalogue.
Digital scans of our historic map collections can be found in the Scanned Maps section of this research guide. There you can find information on how browse, search and use our scanned map collections. In addition there is a list of scanned map collections beyond York University.
We also have a collection of historical atlases that contains maps that depict historical events and historical topics. To find out more about this collection visit our Historical Maps and Atlas section in the Maps and Atlases guide. For more sources, including secondary sources on maps, visit the Maps and Atlases guide.